Reflecting on our Come & Sing Day 2024: A Community Celebration

On Saturday 5th October St Ann’s Hospice Festival Choir attracted choristers from across Greater Manchester and Cheshire to our annual Come and Sing Event. It was a great day of music making. Deputy Director of the Choir, Edward McHale, skilfully guided us through Fauré’s Requiem, culminating in a quality performance, accompanied by talented local pianist, Christopher Ellis.  We raised £1900 towards funding a bedroom in the new Hospice at Heald Green, and have had lots of positive feedback from those who attended.

Unforgettable Moments

A standout moment this year was the rousing performance of Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem. This classical piece, loved by many, brings out profound emotions and allows singers to connect with the heart of choral music. Did you know that Fauré composed this work in the late 19th century? Since then, it has been performed in countless venues worldwide, showcasing its enduring appeal.

The Power of Community Through Song

The strength of our Come & Sing Day lies in its sense of community. Regardless of experience level, everyone played an essential role in fostering a warm, welcoming environment.

The Deputy Director of our choir, Edward McHale, brought his profound knowledge and love for music to the forefront that day. With over 15 years of conducting experience, he engaged us all, making sure each vocal section was heard and appreciated.

Following the event Edward wrote to thank those who participated:

It was a Singing Day with a lot of singing! The effort and attention given by those taking part didn’t waver from the first minute until the end of the performance. For the final sing through, we really did manage to recreate the soundscape of the late 19th century French catholic church in a small sunny corner of Bramhall and, as story said we didn’t just “sing the notes but performed the music.” I hope everyone got at least one spine-tingling moment  - the placing of the final chord of the Amen at the end of the second Offertory movement, or the pianissimo calm at the very end of the final In Paradisum movement - were both very special.

None of this would have been possible without Chris’s piano accompaniment and I can’t imagine the day happening without his input.

C’est magnifique.

Edward.

A Well-Planned Schedule

The day's agenda was carefully crafted, featuring valuable components like warm-up exercises, rehearsals, and social breaks. Each segment was designed to maximize engagement and learning. Participants arrived ready to refine their singing techniques and immerse themselves in the joy of collaboration.

The event encouraged socializing during meal breaks, where many participants shared stories and laughter over their packed lunches. Accessibility was also a priority, ensuring that every community member could participate fully in the day’s activities.

Home made cakes and refreshments were available in the hall.

Giving Back to the Community

Beyond the love of music, Come & Sing Day had a meaningful philanthropic aspect. Proceeds from the event supported St Ann's Hospice. This gave participants a sense of purpose, knowing their singing contributed to an important cause. Information and leaflets about the progress of the new build Hospice were on display. Imogen Priestly-Bird - a fundraiser and our contact at the Hospice, came along to the afternoon performance to thank the participants for their generosity, update them on the progress of the new build and thank them for taking part.

With around £1,900 raised for the hospice on the day, attendees left feeling a connection to both each other and the community at large. This blend of musical celebration and charitable effort is what made the day truly special.

Heartwarming Feedback from Participants

The feedback after the event was overwhelmingly positive. Participants frequently mentioned the inclusive atmosphere and the thrill of singing with others again.

Visitors have told us how much they enjoyed the day and how good the conductor was - getting the best out of the assembled choir.

Here are a few comments we recieved:

Thank you very much for the enjoyable singing day. Thank you also for reserving a seat for me and looking out for me. I found the conductor very engaging and the accompanist excellent, two crucial elements nailed there, in addition to your wonderful organisational skills and effort. I hope the event raised a suitable amount of funds for the hospice. The cakes were delicious!

Just a short line to thank you and everyone who helped (+ Ed and Chris of course) for the Faure sing. We had a wonderful and moving time. Great to see everyone and to sing the Requiem. Thoroughly enjoyed the whole day. 

Thanks again for all the hard work. Now back to the Church choir! 

I and all my friends there enjoyed it so much, it was a fantastic event.  The venue is perfect - spacious, comfortable, well equipped, warm and airy, (not to mention so attractive with those gorgeous windows).  There were even benches to sit out in the sun at lunchtime.  It is acoustically good too - my husband, who sat at the back as an audience guest, said the sound of our singing was lovely.   So, you've certainly found a good'un there!

‘It was a fantastic event, thoroughly enjoyed it!’ 

‘I really enjoyed the day. I have not worked with Edward before, his pace was business like and loved the background he gave us.’

Looking Forward to Next Year

With this year's event being such a success, anticipation for next year's Come & Sing Day is already building. Set for October 2025, it's an event you won't want to miss!

Embracing the Spirit of Music

Reflecting on this year's Come & Sing Day, it is clear how vital community connections are, especially through music. The day transcended mere singing; it centered around shared laughter, memories, and friendships formed.

Thank you to everyone who made it a success. As we look ahead, we welcome new and familiar faces eagerly. Mark your calendars, keep singing, and get ready for a joyous celebration next year!